Why are Alt values so high in cats?
It’s interesting that the ALT is the only elevated liver enzyme she has. Liver values can elevate for a variety of reasons. Obviously some type of liver disease can cause it, or trauma to the liver.
Why do cats have elevated alanine transaminase levels?
Alanine transaminase (ALT) – This enzyme is found in high concentrations in the cat’s liver and smaller levels in the kidney, muscles, heart, and pancreas. If liver cells are injured, inflamed or unable to function properly (due to fatty infiltration or blocked bile duct) increased levels of ALT will be released into the bloodstream.
Where does Alt and ALP come from in cats?
ALT is very specific to leaking, damaged liver cells, but is otherwise pretty non-specific. ALP is fairly specific for biliary (bile ducts and gallbladder) damage in the cat, but it can come from the tiny bile ducts in the liver or the gallbladder and large ducts outside the liver.
When does Alt increase in a small animal?
In small animals with severe muscle injury (ischemic myopathy in cats, muscular dystrophy in dogs, where CK activity is usually > 10,000 U/L), ALT will increase with CK and AST activities.
What causes elevated levels of ALKP in cats?
These tests help to evaluate liver function. Elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP or ALKP) can be found in cats with liver damage due to toxin ingestion or certain medications. Infections, toxins, cancer, and metabolic diseases can cause elevated levels of aspartate transaminase (AST).
What causes a low value of the AST ALT ratio?
Let’s talk about the situation when both AST and ALT are elevated, but the level of ALT is higher than that for AST. This results in a low value of the AST ALT ratio. What are the causes of such a finding?
What does it mean when your alt level is high?
A high ALT level is usually a sign of some type of liver issue. It’s important to work with your doctor to find the underlying cause of your elevated ALT, even if you don’t have any symptoms.
When to take a blood test for AST and Alt?
You’ll need to know your AST and ALT levels, as determined by a bloodtest. Preparation: You should not eat for 12-14 hrs before the test. Your blood sample should be collected between 7 and 10 AM. Your physician may include these tests in your regular check-ups, regardless of the presence any liver insufficiency symptoms.